“He Deserves Far More Respect Than This!” — Amid a Wave of Controversy Surrounding Ilia Malinin, a Legend of the Sport Has Stepped in With a Powerful Defense. Following a Breathtaking Performance, Instead of Universal Praise, the “Quad God” Surprisingly Found Himself Facing Divided Reactions. But Evgeni Plushenko Refused To Stay Quiet: “This Is Unjust. How Can People Turn Against a Young Athlete Who Is Redefining the Limits of Figure Skating?” Under That Intense Pressure, Malinin Looked Visibly Emotional—Focused Eyes, Restrained Feelings, and Honest Words Hinting at a Difficult Chapter Behind the Scenes. And Then, He Delivered a Statement That Sent Shockwaves Through the Entire Skating World.
The figure skating world has been shaken by an unexpected wave of controversy surrounding Ilia Malinin, the young American prodigy widely known as the “Quad God.” After…